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Only One Bag, Not Exceeding 7kg: New Rules For Hand Luggage On Flights

Know about the new hand baggage policy by BCAS, including updated weight and size limits, exemptions for tickets booked before May 2, 2024, and guidelines from airlines like Air India and Indigo.

Sentinel Digital Desk

NEW DELHI: Before traveling by air, it is important to familiarize yourself with the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) new hand baggage policy. Failing to do so could result in unnecessary complications at the airport.

In response to the growing number of passengers at pre-embarkation security checkpoints, BCAS and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), responsible for airport security, have enforced stricter regulations regarding the new hand baggage policy. This enhanced approach has led airlines to implement similar measures.

Under the new BCAS hand baggage policy, passengers are allowed only one piece of hand baggage inside the aircraft, whether traveling on a domestic or international flight. Any additional baggage must be checked in.

Air India allows passengers traveling in economy or premium economy class to carry one piece of hand baggage weighing up to 7 kg. However, passengers in first or business class can carry a heavier bag, with a limit of around 10 kg. Airlines also specify that the baggage dimensions should not exceed 55 cm (21.6 inches) in height, 40 cm (15.7 inches) in length, and 20 cm (7.8 inches) in width.

Airlines specify that the total dimensions of a passenger's hand baggage should not exceed 115 cm. Passengers whose hand baggage exceeds the weight or size limits may incur additional charges. However, those who booked their tickets before May 2, 2024, are eligible for an exemption: 8 kg for economy class, 10 kg for premium economy, and 12 kg for first or business class passengers.

It's important to note that this exemption applies only to tickets booked before May 2, 2024. Any changes made to the booking after this date will be subject to the new baggage policy.

Indigo Airlines allows passengers to carry one cabin bag with a maximum dimension of 115 cm and a weight limit of 7 kg. Additionally, passengers are permitted to bring a personal item, such as a lady’s purse or a small laptop bag, weighing no more than 3 kg.